Nine days in Costa Rica might not sound like much—but trust me, it’s enough to dip your toes into the rainforest, splash in the ocean, soak in hot springs, and still have time for a hammock nap or two. The trick is picking the right itinerary for your travel style. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, adrenaline, beaches, or a little bit of everything, we’ve rounded up sample 9-day Costa Rica itineraries that make the most of your time.
1. The Classic Costa Rica Combo: Arenal + Monteverde + Manuel Antonio
Why it works: This is Costa Rica’s greatest hits album—volcano views, hot springs, misty cloud forests, rainforest adventures, and Pacific beaches.
Itinerary Snapshot:
Days 1–3: Arenal / La Fortuna
- Arrive in San José, transfer for about 3.5 hours to Arenal.
- Stay at Hotel Arenal Manoa, with views of the volcano and lush gardens.
- Enjoy the Arenal Hanging Bridges exploration through the rainforest canopy and trail systems.
- In the evening, soak in the Ecotermales Hot Springs, paired with a relaxing dinner overlooking nature.
- Head out on a wildlife tour focused on sloths, blue jean dart frogs, toucans, monkeys, and other rainforest critters in prime habitat near La Fortuna.
Days 4–5: Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Transfer from Arenal via Lake Arenal boat ride + ground drive to Cloud Forest Lodge in Monteverde / Santa Elena area.
- Day hike in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
- Afternoon Coffee & Chocolate Tour to learn how Costa Rica sources and processes chocolate and coffee. Taste local goods.
Days 6–9: Manuel Antonio
- Ground transfer to the Central Pacific coast; check into Hotel Si Como No in Manuel Antonio / Quepos.
- Guided hike through Manuel Antonio National Park—expect monkeys, sloths, lush jungle trails + white sand beaches.
- Free day to relax on the beach, enjoy hotel amenities, or do optional activities (snorkeling, kayaking, sunset sail).
Best for: Travelers who want a deluxe trip with variety—volcano adventures, wildlife, cloud forest, and Pacific beaches—without having to settle for subpar lodging or skip the photo-worthy moments.
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, families—anyone who wants the “classic” Costa Rica experience.
Like it? You’ll love our Classic Costa Rica Deluxe – 9-day itinerary.
2. For The Wanderer: Coffee Farm + Tortuguero + Cahuita & Puerto Viejo
Why it works: This trip is all about disconnecting—jungle canals, coral reefs, laid-back Caribbean culture, and tranquil beaches. For travelers who want nature, snorkeling, and the rhythm of the Caribbean rather than hustle.
Itinerary Snapshot:
Day 1: Finca Rosa Blanca (Central Valley)
- Arrive in San José, then transfer ~30 minutes to Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn in Heredia.
- Settle in with gourmet food, organic gardens, orchard walks, and views overlooking the Central Valley.
Days 2–3: Tortuguero
- Fly into Tortuguero on the Northern Caribbean Coast.
- Stay at Tortuga Lodge & Gardens. Explore its lush jungle canals—boat tours to spot tropical birds, monkeys, caimans, and more.
- Includes two on-site experiences, plus time to relax by the lodge and soak in the remoteness.
Days 4–7: Cahuita & Puerto Viejo (Southern Caribbean Coast)
- Transfer to Hotel Aguas Claras near Puerto Viejo, after travel via boat/ground.
- Snorkeling tour in Cahuita National Park: coral reefs, colorful reef fish, maybe reef sharks or rays.
- Multiple free days to explore: relax on the beach, bike or walk through the jungle, enjoy beach-club meals, and explore local culture and food.
Day 8-9: Return to Central Valley
- Transfer from Puerto Viejo/Limón back to Finca Rosa Blanca (Heredia). Rest up with coffee or spa time, depending on the schedule.
Best for: Travelers who want to get off the grid, immerse themselves in the jungle and Caribbean culture, combine snorkeling and wildlife, but also enjoy comfort in boutique lodges.
Like it? You’ll love our Off-Grid Caribbean – 9-day itinerary
3. The Adventurer’s Escape: Pacuare + Osa Peninsula + Manuel Antonio
Why it works: This trip dives into Costa Rica’s wildest landscapes—class III/IV whitewater rapids, lush primary rainforest, remote Corcovado, reef snorkeling, and perfect beach trails. Ideal for travelers who want excitement and nature, wrapped in comfort.
Itinerary Snapshot:
Days 1–2: San José & Pacuare River
- Arrive in San José, overnight at Gran Hotel in the city center—historical, renovated, walking distance to museums and markets.
- On day 2, wake up early for whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River. Class III-IV rapids, rainforest walls, waterfalls, and wildlife along the river. Picnics, safety talk, guides—all included.
Days 3–5: Osa Peninsula / Drake Bay
- Fly to Drake Bay and transfer to Águila de Osa Rainforest Lodge. Perched between rainforest and Pacific—silent breezes, open-air meals, stars overhead.
- Hike in Corcovado National Park—swim in waterfalls, track rare wildlife.
- Snorkel at Caño Island Biological Reserve: reefs, big fish, maybe spotted dolphins or whales (seasonal), or optionally dive for certified divers.
Days 6–9: Manuel Antonio
- Transfer from Osa to Manuel Antonio via boat + overland. Stay at Hotel Si Como No.
- One full free day to explore Manuel Antonio National Park—monkeys, sloths, beaches, easy jungle trails.
- Another day for optional tours (snorkeling, kayaking, sunset sail) or just unwind on the beach.
- Final day: private transfer back to San José for your departure flight.
Best for: Nature lovers, adventure travelers, couples, or small groups who want a mix of thrill + chill—rafting, wildlife, reef time, and beach relaxation all in one trip.
Like it? You’ll love our Rainforest Adventure – 9-day itinerary
4. For the R&R Seekers: Rio Perdido + Arenal + Nicoya Peninsula
Why it works: This itinerary brings you luxury and warmth—thermal rivers, volcanic hot springs, rainforest treks, and coastal calm. It’s ideal for travelers who want equal parts relaxation, nature, and exploration, all in one trip.
Itinerary Snapshot:
Days 1–2: Rio Perdido, Guanacaste
- Arrive in Liberia and transfer to Rio Perdido, set in a 600-acre private reserve.
- Explore its trails and thermal river pools, or opt for adventures like canyon zip-lining, mountain biking, or river tubing.
- Unwind in the mineral pools and enjoy the peaceful forest setting.
Day 3 – 5: Transfer to Arenal / Tabacón Hot Springs
- Move to Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, where volcanic waters flow through tropical gardens.
- Spend the evening soaking in hot springs, surrounded by lush foliage and soothing sounds.
- Walk the Arenal Hanging Bridges in a private nature reserve, crossing suspension bridges with views of monkeys, birds, and tropical life.
- Return to Tabacón to relax, enjoy spa treatments, or soak again at your leisure.
- A full day to tailor your experience: more hot springs, spa treatments, optional tours, or just downtime.
Days 6–9: Nicoya Peninsula / Harmony Hotel
- Transfer to Harmony Hotel in Nosara, Nicoya Peninsula.
- Enjoy coastal life with yoga, surfing, beach walks, and spa moments.
- Two full days to explore local beaches, take classes, savor fresh cuisine, or do optional tours (snorkeling, hiking, etc.).
Best for: Travelers who love blending wellness and nature—those who want thermal escapes, rainforest immersion, and beach rest, all in one luxurious journey.
Like it? You’ll love our Hot Springs Hideaway – 9-day itinerary
Expert Tips for Making the Most of 9 Days in Costa Rica
- Don’t overdo it. Costa Rica looks small on a map, but the roads can be slow and distances deceptive. Stick to 2–3 (possibly 4, depending) regions max.
- Build in downtime. Between ziplining, rafting, and hiking, you’ll want a hammock break (or a cocktail by the pool).
- Consider both airports. Flying into San José (SJO) is usually best for Arenal, Tortuguero, and the Caribbean. Liberia (LIR) works better for Guanacaste and Nicoya.
- Book early if traveling in December or January. This is peak holiday season—resorts and tours sell out months in advance.
- Go guided. Naturalist guides make wildlife spotting ten times better. You’ll see more than you ever would on your own.
- Pack for Microclimates. If you move between destinations (rainforest, cloud forest, beach), pack for variability. Bring lightweight layers, quick-dry clothes, sandals and sneakers, a rain jacket, and bug spray.
The Takeaway
9 days in Costa Rica is enough to pack in rainforest treks, volcano adventures, and beach sunsets—you just need to pick the version of Costa Rica that speaks to you. Whether it’s spotting sea turtles in Tortuguero, surfing in Tamarindo, or soaking in hot springs under the shadow of Arenal, nine days here feels like stepping into another world.
And the best part? You can always come back. Because once you’ve had a taste of Costa Rica, 9 days never feel like enough.
Prefer a 9-day customized vacation? Let’s plan your trip!
